Norway
January 30 – February 8, 2026
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Frozen Forests of Lapland
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At a Glance
Location
Finland
Tuition
$9,995
Dates
January 15 – 21, 2027
Fitness Level
Availability
Limited to 5 Guests
Collections
Frozen Forests of Lapland Photography Workshop
Frozen "tree creatures" and Northern Lights
January 15 – 21, 2027
- Explore Lapland’s frozen wilderness and its famed tree creatures
- Long hours of soft golden Arctic light, good chances of aurora
- Boutique hilltop lodge with generous Finnish hospitality
Our Lapland winter photography workshop takes you deep into the heart of Finnish Lapland, where snow-covered forests, frozen rivers, and wind-sculpted trees create one of the most surreal winter landscapes on Earth. In the far north of Finland, the low Arctic sun bathes the land in hours of soft gold and pale blue light, perfect conditions for capturing the quiet drama of winter. From the towering “snow monsters” of Riisitunturi National Park to the icy flow of Myllykoski Rapids and the wilderness summits near Kuntivaara, each day brings new opportunities for striking winter landscape photography. After dark, we’ll turn our lenses skyward in search of the Northern Lights, using long exposures and creative composition to capture their sweep across the polar night. This is an immersive experience in Lapland’s Arctic light, blending adventure, artistry, and technical mastery in one of the most photogenic winter regions in Europe.
Learning is constant throughout this workshop with focused practice on techniques such as composing in minimal landscapes, exposing for snow and high contrast scenes, and using long exposures during the aurora. Where possible, we’ll also work with drones for aerial perspectives over frozen rivers and forests to create graphic, abstract images from above.
Between outings, you’ll return to a boutique lodge perched high on Ruka Fell with warm meals, comfortable rooms, and space to review and edit your work during our signature image review sessions.
By the time you leave, you’ll not only have a collection of images that capture the essence of Lapland’s polar landscapes and Northern Lights, but also more confidence in your ability to handle light, weather, and composition in demanding winter conditions.
Your Pro
Itinerary
This itinerary is subject to change due to weather, local conditions, and other factors.
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and can never be guaranteed. We’ll monitor aurora and cloud forecasts each day and make the most of any clear-night opportunities.
January 16, 2027: Full day among the Tree Creatures
We begin with snowshoe walks from our hotel into the frozen forests of Rukatunturi, working with the soft light of the polar morning. After lunch, we head to Riisitunturi National Park to photograph its famous “tree creatures” under the glow of twilight. Evening conditions may allow for a aurora session among these surreal shapes.
January 17, 2027: Myllykoski Rapids and Signature Image Review
The day starts at Myllykoski Rapids, where flowing water meets sculpted ice, perfect for experimenting with long exposures and textures. Drone photography can be quite impressive in this area, offering unique perspectives of the frozen river. In the afternoon we’ll hold our first image review with personalized feedback to refine techniques, and if the sky clears after nightfall, we’ll head back out to photograph the Northern Lights.
January 18, 2027: Sled up to Kuntivaara National park
Once at the summit, we’ll strap on snowshoes and explore the breathtaking landscape, seeking out unique compositions among the Tikki area’s legendary frozen trees. Midday, we’ll pause for a traditional lunch inside a cozy kota (a small, Lappish wooden hut) gathered around a warm wood fire for a truly authentic Finnish experience.
As night falls, we’ll once again keep an eye on the sky. If conditions are right, we’ll return to Riisitunturi National Park for another chance to capture the Northern Lights dancing above the surreal, snow-laden forest.
January 19–20, 2027: Explore Riisitunturi
Over the next two days, we’ll visit the famed Riisitunturi National Park on snowshoes, reaching the frozen “tree creatures” and working through long stretches of polar light that shift from soft gold to blue. The hotel will pack lunch, allowing us to stay out in the wilderness and continue shooting all day. After a well-earned rest and dinner back at the lodge, we’ll watch the forecast and, if conditions look favorable, return to Riisitunturi to photograph the Northern Lights over the frozen wilderness.
Building in two full days gives us flexibility for varied weather and light—whether it’s clear, overcast, or snowing—so we can make the most of changing conditions.
January 21, 2027: Morning Image Review, afternoon flight out
On our final morning, we’ll gather for a final image review before transferring back to Kuusamo Airport for onward travel.
Flights out can be made after 2:00 PM on January 11, 2027.
Staying Warm In Freezing Conditions
We have been leading people into the cold for over 20 years, and we have some great experience to share that will make your photography far more enjoyable. When you know you'll be photographing in temperatures that drop below freezing and reach -40°F, we suggest the following:
Base Layers: Multiple sets of moisture-wicking, mid-weight, and heavy-weight wool or synthetic long underwear (tops and bottoms).
Mid-Layers: One or more fleece sweaters/pullovers or down/synthetic vests to provide insulation.
Outer Layers: A waterproof and windproof insulated winter coat or parka with a hood. Insulated, waterproof snow pants or ski pants.
Footwear: Insulated, waterproof winter boots that are large enough to fit heavy socks without restricting circulation. "Pac boots" like Sorels are highly recommended. Heavyweight wool or synthetic socks (several pairs), potentially with a thin liner sock. Gaiters to keep snow out of your boots, or ski/snow pants that provide boot cuffs that wrap over the tops of your boots. Comfortable shoes or slippers for indoor use in the evenings.
Accessories: A warm hat (fleece or wool beanie) that covers your ears; a balaclava or face mask is an option for very cold days. A neck gaiter or scarf. Heavy insulated mittens or ski gloves, with a liner glove underneath to allow for dexterity while handling your camera and tripod. USB-powered hand warmers that remain in your jacket pocket. Battery-powered heated vest, jacket, socks, or gloves.
Fitness
Moderate: Expect cold walks of up to 2 miles in snowshoes across snowy, uneven terrain while carrying your gear, with breaks along the way. No prior snowshoeing experience is needed, though a good level of balance is essential.
Flights
Arrive at Kuusamo Airport (KAO), Kuusamo, Finland before 2:00 PM on January 15, 2027. Flights out can be made after 2:00 PM on January 21, 2027. Air travel delays are common. Please arrive early, possibly even the day prior, so you don’t miss any of the workshop.
What to Bring
Please see our page How To Prepare For Your Workshop. We will send you a detailed information document 90 days before your workshop. This document will include specifics of where and when to meet, gear and clothing recommendations, and more.
What’s Included
- Double occupancy lodging. Single available for $1,700 supplement. (Limited to five)
- Scheduled airport transfers.
- All meals, soft drinks, and snacks during the workshop.
- All permits and park fees.
- All transportation during the workshop.
- Tips for crew, drivers, and local guides.
- Multiple image reviews and post-processing sessions.
- Photographic guiding and instruction from Virgil Reglioni.
- Adventure, fun, inspiration, and a great time!
Not Included
- Travel to and from Kuusamo, Finland.
- Passport and visa fees (if applicable).
- Any meals or accommodations before or after the workshop dates.
- Items of a personal nature.
- Alcoholic Beverages.
- Medical Evacuation Insurance (required).
- Travel Medical (required).
- Travel Medical and Trip Cancellation Insurance (optional, but recommended).
- Anything else specifically not listed as included.
- Single rooming available for $1,700 supplement. (Limited to five)
Payment Terms
- Your deposit of $4,995 will hold your space in this workshop.
- Further payment of $3,000 is due by May 1, 2026.
- The balance is due not later than September 1, 2026.
- All of our standard Terms and Conditions apply.
- Need special payment arrangements? No problem, just ask us.
Frequently Asked Questions
You'll focus on composing in minimal landscapes, exposing for snow and low contrast scenes, and using long exposures to capture the Northern Lights. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to use drones for aerial perspectives over frozen rivers and forests, creating graphic, abstract images.
Yes, this workshop is refundable. If you cancel more than 150 days before the start date, you'll receive a full refund. Cancellations between 150 and 91 days will result in a refund of payments exceeding 50% of tuition, and between 90 and 61 days, you'll get a refund of payments exceeding 75% of tuition. No refunds are available within 60 days unless we fill your space, in which case you'll receive a 100% refund of payments made. All refunds are issued by the same payment method and are subject to a 5% administrative processing fee.
The workshop is limited to a maximum of 5 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience with the instructor.
No prior snowshoeing experience is needed, but a good level of balance is essential. The workshop involves moderate fitness activities, including cold walks of up to 2 miles in snowshoes across snowy, uneven terrain.
You'll need multiple sets of moisture-wicking base layers, mid-layers like fleece sweaters, and a waterproof, windproof insulated winter coat. Insulated, waterproof snow pants, winter boots, and accessories like a warm hat, mittens, and USB-powered hand warmers are also recommended to stay comfortable in freezing conditions.
You'll need to arrive at Kuusamo Airport (KAO) before 2:00 PM on January 15, 2027, and plan flights out after 2:00 PM on January 21, 2027. It's advisable to arrive early, possibly the day prior, to avoid missing any part of the workshop due to travel delays.
Yes, medical evacuation insurance is required, and travel medical insurance is also mandatory. While trip cancellation insurance is optional, it is recommended to protect your investment.
